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Limestone Independent News, 114 Roosevelt Street, Bartonville, IL (2025)

12/15/2025

Charles Daniel “Dan” Dolbert, 82, of Farmer City, IL, passed away, Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, IL.

His funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, December 19, 2025, at Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home, 106 N. Main St., Farmer City, IL, with Kyle Kopp officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Farmer City, IL. Visitation will be held Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 5:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the Farmer City Fire Protection District or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Dan was born on February 9, 1943, in Bloomington, IL, a son of Richard A. and Clydel M. (Vance) Dolbert. He married JoNell McCartney on January 19, 1979, in Mansfield, IL.

He is survived by his wife, JoNell Dolbert of Farmer City, IL; children, Amy (Terrell) Jones of Farmer City, IL; Charles Daniel “Dan” Dolbert II of Farmer City, IL; and Chad (Amy) Dolbert of Galena, IL; eight grandchildren; one great-grandson; and siblings, Tom (Susan) Dolbert of Sun Lakes, AZ; Bonnie Gibson of Farmer City, IL; and Cathy (Mike) Doss of Mapleton, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard A. and Clydel M. Dolbert and brother, Phillip Dolbert.

Dan was a car salesman. The last 22 years, he was sales manager for Baum Chevrolet Buick in Clinton, Illinois.

He will be greatly missed by many.

12/10/2025

Betty McCoy Obituary
We are sad to announce that on December 7, 2025 we had to say goodbye to Betty McCoy of Glasford, Illinois. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.

She was predeceased by: her parents, Chester N. Sprague and Floy Sprague (Kingsley); her husband William D. McCoy; her son Chris; and her son-in-law Dr. William Harris.

She is survived by: her children, Kevin McCoy (Cindie) and Kimberly Harris of Glasford; her grandchildren, Lisa Ward (Brent), Chet McCoy (Kari), Natalee Roseboom, Tricia Roberts (Rodney), Kristine Clark (Nathan), Savannah Cheatham (Mike) and Christian McCoy (Ewelina); her stepgrandchildren, Zachary (Layne), Meghan, Tyler and Kyle Harris (Amy); her great grandchildren, Kierston, Cole, Camden McCoy, Georgia DeMaster, Addyson Roberts, Kaleb, Gabriel, Isabella, Eli Clark, Caden Cheatham and Lilah McCoy; her stepgreat-grandchildren, Rowan and Ainsley Harris; and her nieces, Debbie Roberts (Harold) and Diane Butler (Kurt). She is also survived by 23 great nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 12th 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Glasford Baptist Church (209 E 5th St, Glasford, IL 61533). A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 12th 2025 at 11:00 AM at the same location. A burial will be held on Friday, December 12th 2025 at 12:00 PM at the Lancaster Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Glasford Baptist Church, 209 E Fifth Street, Glasford, IL 61653.

12/09/2025

Peoria County – The Peoria County Board of Health on Monday approved an updated fee schedule for vital records and vaccination policy costs for 2026.

Birth and death certificate fees for the Peoria City/County Health Department’s Vital Records Program will be updated to reflect changes by the Peoria County Clerk’s Office approved on November 13, 2025 by the Peoria County Board.

Starting February 1, 2026, fees at both Peoria City/County Health Department and Peoria County Clerk for birth certificates will cost $20. Each additional copy will cost $9. Death certificates will cost $24, with each additional copy costing $13.

The Board of Health also approved updates to the Vaccination Fee Schedule. Starting on January 1, 2026, the Peoria City/County Health Department will assess fees in accordance with private insurance as well as Medicare.

Costs and charges will be reviewed quarterly to reflect current changes. Clients will be able to call Clinical Services at (309) 679-6655 for current vaccine fees.

The Board of Health has approved adoption of an updated Hardship Policy, which includes a sliding fee schedule, allowing the agency to provide vaccines to individuals who lack insurance or cannot afford to pay.

Tim Shelley
Communications Coordinator
Peoria County
(309) 495-4862 (o) | (309) 253-9738 (c)
[email protected]

12/08/2025

PEORIA – The PNC New Year’s Eve Kids Countdown, presented by Better Built and OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois, is back at the Peoria Civic Center Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025.
The festivities kick off at 3:00 p.m. inside the Exhibit Halls at the Peoria Civic Center, featuring an afternoon packed with fun activities and entertainment for the whole family, including interactive games, arts and crafts, live performances, inflatables, and hands-on experiences from local vendors and community partners. With activities for kids of all ages, this provides a perfect way to celebrate New Year’s Eve before the big countdown and the special ball drop!
“PNC is proud to sponsor this family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration in downtown Peoria. This beloved tradition creates meaningful moments for children and families to come together, learn, and have fun,” said Brian Ray, PNC regional president for Central Illinois. “We’re thrilled to continue our year-round support for the Peoria Civic Center and its incredible work in bringing people together. This venue isn’t just a place for events – it’s a hub for connection, creativity and the heart of our community spirit.”
Dynamic stage performances will feature Safari Joe, Flynn School of Irish Dance, Communication Junction, Penguin Project, Joel the Magician, and Coach Bre Cottage’s Cheerleading & Dance Company.
After the activities conclude at 5:45 p.m., the fun will move outside to our Sonar Tide courtyard for the 6:00 p.m. ball drop, followed by fireworks presented by Better Built. Admission to the event is free to the public.
For a complete list of activities and more information on the 2025 PNC New Year’s Eve Kids Countdown, visit https://www.peoriaciviccenter.com/event/2025-pnc-new-years-eve-kids-countdown/59/

12/08/2025

Good morning from the BHHA in Bishop Hill,

Next week, we will be having our annual Lucia Nights (Festival of Lights). This Swedish Christmas holiday festival has free music, Lucia girls, and much more. Attached are photographs, press release, and schedule about this family-friendly event. If you could please let the public know about this festival, we would appreciate it.

Thank you for your help and God Jul!

12/07/2025

James H. Smithers Obituary
James H. Smithers Jr., 72, of Peoria, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Carle Methodist Hospital in Peoria. He was born on September 6, 1953, in Newfoundland, Canada, to James Sr. and Carolee (Clodfelter) Smithers, who preceded him in death.

He is survived by his son, Shay Smithers of Peoria; his sisters, Becky (Dave) Cannon of Peoria and Brenda (Ray) Coulson of Bartonville; as well as one niece and three nephews.

James worked for many years as a delivery driver for the Peoria Airport and later found great purpose as a school bus driver for South Pekin Grade School, where he was well-liked and respected by students and staff alike. He will be remembered for his easygoing nature, steady presence, and the kindness he showed to everyone who crossed his path. In his spare time, he enjoyed gardening and reading.

Cremation rites have been accorded through Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton. A memorial service was held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the Glen Oak Christian Church, 1115 E Republic St, Peoria, IL. A luncheon followed.

In Lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made to support Shay during this difficult time as he works to get re-established.

To leave online condolences, please visit oakshinefuneralhome.com.

12/05/2025

James "Jay" Thomas, 52, of Washington, Illinois, passed away at 6:54pm on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

He was born on September 25, 1973, in Mattoon, Illinois, the son of James J. and Linda J. Carey Thomas.

Surviving are one daughter Savannah (Chase) Thomas of Metamora, Illinois, his mother Linda (Keith) Henderson of Pekin, Illinois, one brother Brett (Stephanie) Barton of Monticello, Illinois, two sisters Ashley (Jason) Blessman of Pekin, Illinois and Aubrie (Justin) Green of Glasford, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his father.

He worked as a project manager for Crane Equipment and Services in Eureka, Illinois.

Jay had a passion for many hobbies. In high school he was on the wrestling team, track and played football. In later years he briefly played semi professional football in Peoria, Illinois. He was most proud of his daughter, Savannah.

His guitars were a constant companion and source of comfort. Whether he was playing music with friends at a local gathering or at home, his music was a reflection of his soul-joyful, sincere, and full of life.

An avid sports enthusiast, Jay's dedication to the Dallas Cowboys was unwavering. Win or lose, he stood by his team with the kind of loyalty that inspired those around him. Jay's love for the game was matched only by his skill at the pool table. He was a formidable opponent, known for his sharp eye and strategic mind. Yet, even in competition, he remained a gentleman, always gracious in victory and defeat. He was also a Rusty Wallace NASCAR fan. Fishing was another of Jay's great pleasures. He found solace in the tranquility of nature, the quiet patience of waiting for a catch, and the thrill of reeling in a fish after a well-fought battle. These moments, spent in the serenity of the outdoors, were a source of renewal for Jay, a time to reflect and appreciate the simple beauty of the world around him.

A visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, 2025, from 4 pm until 6 pm at Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington. Following his visitation, a funeral service is scheduled for 6 pm also at the funeral home. Following the funeral service, cremation rites will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, donations for the education of Evelynn, Jay's soon to be granddaughter, would be appreciated. Checks may be made payable to Jay's daughter, Savannah Thomas, and accepted at the funeral home. To share a memory or send a condolence to his family, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

12/05/2025

James Schneider Obituary
James "Jim" Bertrand Schneider Jr.

June 19, 1960 - November 25, 2025

James "Jim" Bertrand Schneider Jr., 65, of Long Grove, Iowa, passed away at home with his family on Tuesday, November 25th, 2025. He exhibited incredible strength, courage, and positivity throughout his nearly two-year journey with esophageal cancer.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 5th, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Eldridge, Iowa. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 6th, at 11 a.m., with visitation one hour prior to services at Faith Lutheran Church. A luncheon for family and friends will be served after services at the church. Memorial donations in Jim's memory may be directed to Faith Lutheran Church. Chambers Funeral Home of Eldridge is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jim was born on June 19th, 1960 in Pontiac, IL, the son of James Bertrand Schneider Sr. and Suzanne (Bradle) Schneider. He was raised in Benson, IL with his younger siblings, Mary, Andy, Greg and Joe. After graduating from Roanoke-Benson High School in 1978, he attended Illinois State University, where he participated in wrestling and earned a BS in Psychology. He furthered his studies at the University of Kansas receiving his MSEd in Counseling and becoming a lifelong Jayhawks fan.

Jim met his future wife Joni Kuehl while working as a Hall Director at Northeast Missouri (Truman) State University. They were united in marriage on June 25, 1988, at Faith Lutheran Church in Eldridge, Iowa. The couple spent their first six years together living in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, where Jim was employed in Student Support Services at Three Rivers Community College. After the birth of their first daughter Anna Marie, they decided to relocate closer to both of their families and moved to Iowa, eventually settling in Long Grove. Daughter Jamie Suzanne soon arrived and completed the family. Jim was a doting father and husband who cared for and spoiled all of his girls, including their dogs.

Jim passionately enjoyed being an educator, adviser and mentor. He was employed by Scott Community College for 23 years: first at the Career Assistance Center and later as the Director of the TRiO Student Support Services. After taking an early retirement from SCC in 2016, he worked for North Scott Community School District as the School to Work Coordinator, taught college level Psychology for high school students and worked as a substitute teacher for several area schools. One of Jim's greatest joys was mentoring students and helping them find their path in life.

Jim loved music. He relished singing with the choirs of Faith Lutheran Church and the Quad City Singers and playing his tuba with local groups. He was a very creative chef, concocting many improvised meals for his family. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing, canoeing and especially bicycling, and he proudly fulfilled a lifelong dream of participating in RAGBRAI in 2023. Jim attended Faith Lutheran Church, was a member of the Eldridge Lions, acted and worked with Countryside Community Theater and pursued a motivational speaking vocation through involvement with the QC Toastmasters and the National Speaker Association.

Left to cherish Jim's memory are his wife, Joni; daughters, Anna Marie and Jamie Suzanne; sister Mary (Steve) Carls of Gridley, IL; brothers, Andrew Schneider of Benson, IL, Greg (Kim) Schneider of Roanoke, IL, Joe (Brenda) Schneider of Benson, IL; Joni's siblings Jayne (Mike) Dant of Bartonville, IL, Mary Beth (David) Heimendinger of Scarville, IA, Matthew (Mary Kay) Kuehl of Powell, OH., his nieces and nephews, Amanda (Brandon), Jacob (Molly), Rachel (Zach), Abby (Adam), Sadie, Adam (Parul), Zoe, Katie and Lola, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by viewing his obituary at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.

Chambers Funeral Home of Eldridge
644 River Drive, Bettendorf, IA 52722
563-355-1751

11/24/2025

Peoria County Offices Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday

Peoria County – The Peoria County Courthouse, Veterans Assistance Commission, Election Commission, Highway Department offices, and offices at Peoria County Health and Human Services are closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28, 2025.

In addition to Thursday and Friday, Peoria County Animal Protection Services will be closed on Saturday, November 29. Animal control officers can be reached at their after-hours number: (309) 674-3131.

The Peoria County Sheriff’s Office, Jail, and Juvenile Detention Center will remain staffed and functioning, but records and visitation will be closed through Saturday, November 29. Inmates may still be visited remotely throughout the closure. The bonding lobby will retain normal hours.

Find departments located within the Peoria County Courthouse and a full list of County holidays at https://www.peoriacounty.gov/274.

Tim Shelley
Communications Coordinator
Peoria County
(309) 495-4862 (o) | (309) 253-9738 (c)
[email protected]

11/19/2025

Hi Limestone Independent News,

DAV & RecruitMilitary to Host Virtual Veteran & Military Spouse Hiring Event

What: Military Community Job Fair connecting service members, veterans, Guard/Reserve, and military spouses with employers that are actively hiring.

When: Tuesday, November 25, 11:00am to 3:00pm Central

Why it matters: This event accelerates veteran hiring by translating military experience into civilian opportunity—delivering fast access to decision-makers across various industries.

To learn more about RecruitMilitary, visit: https://recruitmilitary.com/

NATIONAL VIRTUAL CAREER FAIR
National Virtual Career Fair for Veterans

Where: Online

Who: Transitioning service members, veterans, Guard/Reserve, and military spouses; regional and national employers hiring for skilled roles.

Media Inquiries:
Shelby West | [email protected] | 757-769-2745
Note for editors: B-roll and photos can be provided upon request.

11/17/2025

Cynthia A. Olson, age 78, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, IL.

Cindy was born on January 8, 1947, in Freeport, IL, a daughter of the late James and Mardelle (Adams) Erdmier. She married James E. Olson on May 6, 1975, in Peoria. He survives. Also surviving is their daughter, Anne Olson of Peoria and siblings, Barry (Sue) Erdmier of Morton, Jackie Hansen of Hanna City and Steve Erdmier of St. Louis, MO, nieces, Andrea Sears, Kelly (Roger) Owdom, Kate Olson and Staci Olson and nephews, Michael (Jenny) Erdmier, Chris Erdmier, Tom (Kim) Olson, John (Wendy) Olson, Ryan (Sarah) Olson, and Devin (Linsay) Olson, as well as several great-nieces and nephews.

Cindy was an avid sewer and quilter and would regularly donate her handmade quilts to family and friends as well as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, The Children's Home Association of Illinois, The Linus Project and several other local organizations.

She enjoyed watching her church, Grace Alive every Sunday and was a member of their Quilting & More women's group. She was also famous in the family for her delicious homemade jelly.

Memorial Services will be at 2:00 PM on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Wright & Salmon Mortuary, with a one-hour prior visitation. Rev. Steven Barch will officiate. Cremation Rites have been accorded.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made Neighborhood House, 1020 Matthew Street, Peoria, 61605

Tributes and condolences may be left at www.wrightandsalmon.com

11/17/2025

November 17, 2025
Press Release - For Immediate Release
Experience Julmarknad (Christmas Market) in Bishop Hill!
BISHOP HILL, IL – Prepare for the holidays by attending the 2025 Julmarknad (Christmas Market) in historic Bishop Hill, IL. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. November 28-29 and December 6. On November 30 and December 7, the hours are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The daily attractions include Swedish folk characters, traditional Swedish holiday decorations, holiday music, and Christmas gifts for sale. All our shops, museums, and restaurants will be open to satisfy your holiday needs. See Tomten, our Swedish elves, looking through windows and peeking around corners in their red and grey outfits. A working model railroad will also be in the Steeple Building Museum. During Julmarknad, paint stations will be
set up in the Vasa National Archive for painters to decorate their own wooden Dala Horse. Paint, brushes, and smocks are provided. Participants are welcome to leave their Dala horses at the archive to dry while shopping in Bishop Hill. The Dala Horses are available for a $5 for an ornament or $7 for a standing horse whether you paint here or at home. Painters can call or email to reserve horses to ensure supply. Call 309-927-3898 or email [email protected] for more information. Enjoy a DIY
Scandinavian Photo Op as well as a free make it & take it craft for the kids at the 1882 Peasant Works barnyard! All of the above activities will happen every day of Julmarknad.
On Friday November 28 only, the Cookie Walk will be held at the Colony School from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Homemade cookies and other baked goods can be purchased by the pound. Also at the Colony School, the Bishop Hill Methodist Church will be conducting an Advent Wreath Workshop where families can make Advent Wreaths to take home. Lisa Horngren will be performing a free concert of traditional Swedish music on her nyckelharpa (keyed fiddle) at the Steeple Building Museum at 1 p.m. Finally,
cookie baking will be done in the historic Bjorklund Hotel kitchen from 1 to 3 p.m.
On Saturday November 29 only, the Cookie Walk and the Advent Wreath Workshop will continue at the Colony School. Dee Schroeder Photography will be at the Colony School taking holiday portraits for a fee from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Author Jannifer Powelson will have a book signing at the Prairie Arts Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tennessee-based performer Lisa Horngren will again be performing a free concert of traditional Swedish music on her nyckelharpa at the Steeple Building Museum at 1 p.m.
Cookie baking will continue at the Bjorklund Hotel kitchen. Saturday is also Small Business Saturday, so please support your local economy and shop the small businesses of Bishop Hill.
On Sunday November 30 only, Tennessee-based performer Lisa Horngren will be performing her final free concert of traditional Swedish music at the Steeple Building Museum at 1 p.m. Cookie baking will continue at the historic Bjorklund Hotel kitchen from 1 to 3 p.m. Author Mary Davidsaver will
have a book signing at the Prairie Arts Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
On Saturday December 6 only, a Chocolate Walk will be held at the Bishop Hill Creative Commons from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Purchase quality homemade chocolates by the pound while they last. Also, the BHHA volunteers are sponsoring a make it/take it Christmas tree ornament workshop for children ages 12 and under at the Steeple Building Museum. Kids will have a choice of several types of ornaments to make and to take home to put on their Christmas tree. This is a free activity occurring from 1- 3 p.m. In addition, renowned Swedish vocal ensemble, Kongero, will teach a variety of Swedish folk songs and tunes in 2- to 4-part harmony – all by ear, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Dairy Building. Song books will be available for sale at the workshop, but are not necessary for participation. Reservations are not required and participation is free. Later on, at 7 p.m., Kongero will be performing a concert at the Bishop Hill Creative Commons.
On both December 6 and 7, children are invited to make edible tree ornaments at the Bjorklund Hotel from 1 to 3 p.m. Peanuts will be used. These ornaments may be taken home, or left at the Hotel to be placed on the Bishop Hill Park’s Christmas tree during the tree lighting on Lucia Nights. Author Mary Davidsaver will have a book signing at the Prairie Arts Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information about Julmarknad activities, please view www.visitbishophill.com or call 309-927-3899. Julmarknad events are financed by Community State Bank, Illinois Arts Council, Barbro
Osher Pro Suecia Foundation, and the BHHA. Regional Media is our major media sponsor.
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Limestone Independent News

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